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What Security Issues Enterprises Face When Using Cloud Storages and File Sharing Apps

Today innovative informational technologies are being implemented in all spheres of our life, and for the most part, they are aimed to streamline business processes. Cloud storage proved to be very convenient so no wonder that many companies widely adopted this know-how. Its usage is highly beneficial in terms of saving money as there is no need to purchase pricey software while all storage and IT needs are still met.

Cloud services became the most successful invention of the recent time, and many businessmen duly appreciate and get the most of its accessibility, user-friendliness, and affordability.

Yet, as any Internet-based technology, cloud services, as well as file sharing apps, bring up certain security issues that are necessary to take into consideration. The main problem is obvious: the work of the cloud services is based on the trust of the client to the host that stores important (and for the most part) confidential information. No matter how reliable cloud storage may seem, it remains a third-party service, and that draws several security issues.

Losing control over sensitive data

It is hard to imagine modern business without data storage on Google Drive or Dropbox. However, when you place your files there, you cannot adjust or control security settings as the data is stored in the third-party IT environment. Many cloud services don’t encrypt the stored data, so there is a possibility that someone else may see the sensitive information without your permission. To secure your business data, select the service that offers encryption of the stored and transited data.

Data breaches

Many companies have refused to use cloud storage as there is always a risk of data leakage, plus cloud storages are more attractive to cybercriminals. These are multi-user environments, so there are more chances to find essential information instead of the targeted attacks on the particular enterprise. Today even world renown tech CEOs like Yahoo!, or Twitter director generals fall victims to hackers, without mentioning simple sites and services. No wonder that businessmen are afraid to entrust their data to the cloud service. Also, accounts’ cracks are not that infrequent. How to protect yourself? Make sure that your files are encrypted, and the password to your account is not that simple to guess.

‘Bring your own device’ approach

Many companies enable employees to work using their own devices. For the most part, it improves productivity – employee is used to a certain interface plus their devices are usually more powerful than those owned by the enterprise. Such approach is quite convenient both for employees and employers who save money on office equipment. However, any personal device requires access to the cloud data storage, and in case if it falls into the wrong hands, scammers can steal valuable information. Plus, employers often don’t monitor personal devices of their employees, so it is almost impossible to track the source of data leakage.

Snooping

If data is transferred to the storage without a secured connection, the risk of interception exists. So when you are choosing the most appropriate cloud storage, make sure it uses all possible means of data encryption and protection.

Key Management

Usage of cryptographic keys is always a threat to companies. However, with the appearance of cloud services the risk grew even bigger. To be sure that key management is put to the good use, make sure that keys are strongly protected, the access to the data calls for authorization, passwords are strong, and the whole process of key management is automated and monitored.

Cloud Credentials

Anyone can use cloud storage to save files there, and God only knows what passwords other users come up with. On the one hand, the access to cloud service is restricted; on the other, the access is granted with the user credentials, and one weak password may cause a lot of troubles. Although scammers may not open files stored in the hacked account, they can copy or delete them. Again, the most effective way to protect yourself is to use a strong password and encrypt all information.

What Security Issues Enterprises Face When Using Cloud Storages and File Sharing Apps